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Founded in 1720, this Spanish frontier mission, the largest of the five San Antonio missions, is best known for its rose window. On Sundays, this Texas and U.S. National historic site offers a mariachi mass.

Located on the south bank of the San Antonio River, La Villita was one of San Antonio’s first neighborhoods. In 1939, as ground broke on the San Antonio River Walk development, city official led by Mayor Maury Maverick acted to preserve this colorful part of San Antonio’s history. Today La Villita is a thriving arts community that stands as a monument to San Antonio’s past. La Villita...
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Located on the south bank of the San Antonio River, La Villita was one of San Antonio’s first neighborhoods. In 1939, as ground broke on the San Antonio River Walk development, city official led by Mayor Maury Maverick acted to preserve this colorful part of San Antonio’s history. Today La Villita is a thriving arts community that stands as a monument to San Antonio’s past. La Villita is on the National Registry of Historic Districts. A historic arts village since 1939, the galleries and shops found in just one square block offer unique art by local and regional artists featuring oil paintings, sculptures, watercolors, metal art, rock art, textiles, copper wares, pottery, jewelry, stained glass and regional folk art.Please check out the many Shops at La Villita, which are open 10 am to 6 pm, Monday through Saturday, many on Sundays. In addition to the shops, restaurants and cafe, La Villita also has a number of beautiful outdoor venues, including the Arneson River Theatre, available for rent for weddings, receptions, birthday parties, concerts, dance performances, and much more.For a complete list of events at La Villita, please find us on Facebook. Less

You may not want to read a book, but a visit to the library is worth just to see the Chihuly blown glass sculpture in San Antonio's downtown library. Just walk in the main door and look up. It reminds me of the confetti flying out of a cascarón (a eggshell stuffed with confetti and cracked over someone's head during Fiesta).

Fee: No
Duration of visit: 1-2 hours

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About this expert

Adrienne Lawrence is a journalist who has travelled since she was a child and continues her adventures with her husband.